Oats and Apple Crumble Pie: A Guilt-Free Delight
Sometimes, nothing beats the comforting warmth of a homemade dessert. This Oats and Apple Crumble Pie is an ideal treat for those seeking a satisfying yet healthy option. With its wholesome ingredients, including oats, wheat germ, and fresh apples, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. The crumble topping, made from a combination of oats and wheat germ, adds a delightful crunch to the soft, cinnamon-spiced apple slices, making every bite a joy. Wheat germ, known for its vegetable proteins, fiber, and an array of vitamins and minerals like Iron, Magnesium, and Zinc, combines wonderfully with the fiber-rich oats to create a dessert that feels good and tastes even better. So, whether you’re serving it as an after-dinner delight or as a snack to brighten your day, this pie is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Instant Oats (Oatmeal) | 3/4 cup, dry roasted & ground |
| Wheat Germ | 1/2 cup, roasted |
| Cane Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/4 cup, cold, cut into small pieces |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Apple | 1, cut into slices |
Preparation and Cooking Instructions:
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Prepare the Crumble Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cane sugar, roasted wheat germ, and ground instant oats. Stir them together until well combined.
- Add the cold butter into the bowl, cutting it into small pieces, and use your fingers to mix it into the dry ingredients. Continue mixing until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
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Prepare the Pie Mold:
- Line a loose-bottom pie mold or a 6-inch baking tin with parchment paper for easy removal later.
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Layer the Crumble and Apples:
- Transfer half of the crumble mixture into the prepared pie mold. Press it down evenly to form the base of the pie.
- Coat the apple slices with cinnamon powder and arrange them over the crumble base.
- Sprinkle some of the crumble mixture over the apple slices. Add another layer of cinnamon-coated apples and repeat until all the apple slices are used up.
- Finish by covering the top with the remaining crumble mixture and press it down gently to form a smooth surface.
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Prepare for Baking:
- Place a sheet of aluminum foil over the pie’s surface, then press a second baking tin on top of the foil to apply some weight.
- Refrigerate the pie for 10 minutes to allow it to set.
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Bake the Pie:
- While the pie is cooling in the fridge, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- After refrigerating, bake the pie at 160°C (320°F) for about 20 minutes, or until the crumble turns golden brown. Keep the aluminum foil and additional baking tin on top of the pie while baking to maintain an even cooking environment.
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Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
- Refrigerate it for another 10 minutes to ensure it sets properly before slicing.
- Serve and enjoy! This pie makes an excellent after-dinner treat or a satisfying snack for both kids and adults alike.
Nutritional Information:
The Oats and Apple Crumble Pie is a wholesome, satisfying dessert that provides essential nutrients while keeping the indulgence factor in check. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
- Oats: A rich source of beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that is known to help lower bad cholesterol levels, making it a heart-healthy ingredient. Oats are also packed with complex carbohydrates, providing a steady source of energy.
- Wheat Germ: Loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, wheat germ is also a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, zinc, and thiamin. It’s a fantastic addition to any dessert for both its nutritional value and its nutty flavor.
- Apples: Naturally high in fiber and vitamin C, apples add a touch of natural sweetness to this pie while also supporting digestive health and boosting the immune system.
- Cinnamon: This aromatic spice not only enhances the flavor profile of the pie but also offers anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in antioxidants.
- Butter: While this recipe uses only a modest amount of unsalted butter, it adds a rich, creamy texture to the crumble topping.
Allergen Information:
This Oats and Apple Crumble Pie contains the following potential allergens:
- Gluten: Due to the presence of wheat germ, this pie is not suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
- Dairy: The recipe calls for unsalted butter, which contains dairy. A dairy-free alternative like margarine or coconut oil can be used for those with dairy allergies.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this pie gluten-free, substitute the wheat germ with a gluten-free alternative, such as quinoa flakes or gluten-free oats.
- Dairy-Free Option: To make this pie dairy-free, replace the unsalted butter with a non-dairy butter alternative or coconut oil.
Tips and Variations:
- Apple Variety: Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor. Tart apples like Granny Smith pair wonderfully with the sweet crumble, while sweeter varieties like Fuji can add extra natural sweetness.
- Make Ahead: This pie can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. It even tastes better after resting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Nuts: For a bit of crunch, consider adding a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds to the crumble topping.
- Serve with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: For an extra treat, serve the pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream (dairy-free options are available).
Conclusion:
This Oats and Apple Crumble Pie is a perfect way to enjoy a dessert without the guilt. It combines the heartiness of oats and the nutritional benefits of wheat germ with the natural sweetness of apples, all in a deliciously comforting pie. Whether you’re serving it as an afternoon snack, a light dessert after dinner, or simply enjoying it with a cup of tea, this pie is bound to satisfy your cravings while keeping you feeling good. So, treat yourself to a slice of this wholesome goodness—because you deserve it!
